Drinking as few as 4 cups of coffee a day (800mg of caffeine) by a pregnant woman has been associated with decreased birthweight and a smaller head size in newborns.
Although an exact "toxic" amount for caffeine has not been determined, it makes sense to limit your caffeine intake.
Caffeine is found in many beverages and foods, including coffee, tea, cola drinks and chocolate. Some medications, such as cough medicines and headache medicines, also contain a lot of caffeine. It's important to read labels.
Caffeine is a central-nervous-system stimulant. There are no known benefits for you or your unborn fetus from caffeine. Caffeine can also affect calcium metabolism in both you and your baby.
Limit your caffeine intake during pregnancy and if you breast-feed. Read labels on foods, beverages and over-the-counter medications to find out about caffeine content. Eliminate as much caffeine from your diet as possible.
Some medications, such as cough medicines and headache medicines, contain a lot of caffeine. It's important to read labels.
